antidrug
|an-ti-drug|
/ˈæn.ti.drʌɡ/
against drugs
Etymology
'antidrug' is a modern English compound formed from the prefix 'anti-' and the noun 'drug'. 'Anti-' originates from Greek 'anti-' meaning 'against', and 'drug' comes from Old French 'drogue' (from Middle Dutch 'droge') referring originally to 'dry goods' or 'medicinal substances'.
The element 'drug' evolved from Middle Dutch 'droge' to Old French 'drogue' and into Middle English (e.g. 'drogge'), eventually becoming the modern English 'drug'. The compound 'antidrug' arose in modern English (20th century) as public policy and campaigns opposing drug use became common.
Initially the parts meant 'against' + 'drug' (literally 'against drugs'); over time the compound came to specifically denote policies, campaigns, or measures aimed at preventing illegal or harmful drug use.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person, program, policy, or measure that opposes or aims to prevent drug use (often used in compounds: antidrug policy, antidrug unit).
Local antidrug efforts reduced street sales in the neighborhood.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
opposed to illegal or recreational drug use; intended to prevent or reduce drug use (often used of campaigns, policies, or programs).
The government launched an antidrug campaign in schools.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/31 05:15